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© Andy Brown

Kelham Island Museum

Kelham Island Museum celebrates 300 years of Sheffield making history

Explore the story of making in the city, from master craftsmen to mass production. Experience life and work during the Industrial Revolution, follow the sights and sounds of progress through the Victorian era, celebrate the Women of Steel and see how industry forged the modern city.


You’ll hear the roar and feel the rumble of the mighty River Don Engine, the 425 ton 12,000hp visitor-favourite in steam twice a day Thursday-Sunday, and find out more about the industry that saw Sheffield become world-renowned for making and innovation.

During your visit you'll have a chance to:

  • See the pioneering Sheffield Simplex cars and more in the Transport Galleries
  • Step back in time as you stroll along the cobbles of Little Mesters Street
  • Explore the Hawley Tool Collection, chronicling centuries of skilled craftsmanship and precision manufacturing
  • See the Crossley Gas Engine and Die-Sinkers Workshop in action
  • Find out about life on the home front in Sheffield in the 1916 House 

Then when it's time to recharge your batteries, there are plenty of treats to be had at our café, Joni  – there's even a traditional pub on-site, The Millowners Arms.

 

Free Entry | Please Donate

Opening Times

Tue-Sat 10am-4pm | Sun 11am-4pm

***The museum will be closed for the Steel City Beer & Cider Festival Thu 17 - Sun 20 Oct> The museum will also close earlier at 3.30pm on Wed 16 Oct***

The Upper Transport Gallery and Simplex Car display will be closed for events Tue 8 - Tue 22 Oct & Sat 26 Oct

Due to a fault with the lift at Kelham Island Museum there is currently no step-free access to the Transport Gallery

Kelham Island Museum

Alma Street

Sheffield

S3 8RY

 

 

River Don Engine

Hear the roar and feel the rumble of the most powerful working steam engine in Europe - an unmissable part of any visit to Kelham Island Museum! In steam Thu-Sun.

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All Displays and Events

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Plan your visit

Find out everything you need to plan your visit, from getting here to onsite facilities

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  • © Ian M Spooner
  • © Andy Brown
  • © Andy Brown
  • © Andy Brown

Museum Gift Experience: Run the River Don Engine

Our unforgettable museum experience packages – including a chance to run the mighty River Don Engine –  are a present guaranteed to wow that special someone.

As well as making their day (or maybe treating yourself), you’ll also be giving an important gift to your museums – raising vital funds to help keep them free and open for everyone to enjoy, all year round.

 

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A small group of adults and children viewed from behind, looking up at the River Don Steam Engine.

Support Us

Sheffield Museums is a charity. Your support helps keep your museums open and free for everyone to enjoy.

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Hire Kelham Island Museum

Events steeped in Sheffield history, from weddings to festivals and corporate hospitality.  

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